Key Takeaways:
– New York Knicks’ player Josh Hart urges free agents OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein to return next season.
– OG Anunoby’s return could transform the Knicks into a top-tier Eastern Conference team.
– Isaiah Hartenstein’s performance as a starting center this season indicates his value for the Knicks’ upcoming campaigns.
Following a commendable performance in the playoffs, the New York Knicks are keen to escalate their momentum into the next NBA season. One crucial aspect of this plan is to secure the return of their unrestricted free agents, OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein.
Perfect Fit: Importance of Anunoby’s Return
Despite facing a 130-109 loss in Game 7 of the NBA playoffs second round against the Indiana Pacers, the Knicks’ spirits remain high. The team’s strong performance amidst a slew of injuries has sparked optimism. Knicks’ shooting guard, Josh Hart, mirrored this sentiment when he asserted to the New York Post that he hopes both Anunoby and Hartenstein make a comeback.
A significant part of the Knicks’ successful season is attributed to the outstanding performance by Anunoby. With a 26-5 winning record when Anunoby was in the lineup, the team showed tremendous potential. His defensive skills played a key role in the team’s success, holding opponents to a mere 35.7% shooting rate.
Hence, retaining Anunoby is the Knicks’ top priority this off-season. His impact on the team reinforces the belief that a healthy Anunoby-backed Knicks could evolve into one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Potential for a Hefty Payday: Hartenstein’s Rise as a Starting Center
Alongside Anunoby, Isaiah Hartenstein is another asset whom the Knicks are eager to re-sign. After stepping in for Mitchell Robinson, who missed 50 games due to an ankle injury, Hartenstein emerged as a dependable starting center. In 64 starts this season, Hartenstein averaged impressive stats – 9.1 rebounds, 8.6 points, 3.2 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks.
Hartenstein’s performance so far suggests he could substantially benefit from the shallow pool of free-agent starting centers this off-season. His valuable contribution puts him in a strong position to negotiate a lucrative contract.
Waiting Game: Free Agents’ Decisions Yet to be Confirmed
Despite the Knicks’ intrinsic growth and promising future, Anunoby remains non-committal about renewing his contract. The team traded valuable players to acquire Anunoby, indicating their faith in his abilities. With numerous teams and significant cap space on the horizon, it’s crucial the Knicks offer a deserving deal to retain Anunoby.
As for Hartenstein, he mentioned to Hoopshype’s Michael Scotto his willingness to return if the Knicks match any upcoming offers. The Knicks possess Hartenstein’s early Bird rights, giving them room to re-sign him even surpassing the salary cap.
As the off-season approaches, Knicks fans and the team alike wait eagerly for the decisions of these vital, unrestricted free agents. The return of Anunoby and Hartenstein could catapult the Knicks to new heights in the NBA’s Eastern Conference in the seasons to come.